Engineers report iron and low‑pressure issues in Queenstown Harbor; looping mains and pumps suggested

Engineers from Rauch, Inc. told Queenstown commissioners during a Feb. 26 work session that water samples from the Queenstown Harbor development show iron concentrations rising toward the ends of distribution lines. Brian Fitzgerald explained the firm believes dead‑end mains and elevation changes that trap sediment, along with narrow service laterals that increase friction loss, are the most likely causes.

Fitzgerald said tying mains into a loop should reduce sediment accumulation. He also recommended assessing lateral diameters and, if necessary, upsizing laterals or installing pressure pumps along the main to address low‑pressure complaints. Residents who attended the meeting expressed interest in pursuing pump installations if testing and cost estimates supported that approach. Commissioners Tom Willis and Bryon Callahan said they agreed to explore cost estimates; President Al Hardee abstained from that particular decision because he lives in the affected area and noted a “black substance” he reported seeing in a washing machine that staff will investigate further.

Town staff said they can obtain cost estimates and further testing to confirm whether dead‑end lines, lateral sizes or elevation profiles are the primary drivers of the iron and low‑pressure issues. No final commitment to capital work or a timeline for installations was recorded in the minutes.